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June 06, 2013 | North America: New Jersey

Fostering Inclusion in the Health Care Community

By Dr. Kimberly K. Friedman

Designed to help doctors feel more comfortable examining individuals with intellectual disabilities and illustrate treatment options, a continuing education course was held for 60 optometric physicians by Special Olympics and the Richard J Favreau OD Health Foundation on May 8 in East Windsor, NJ.
The foundation promotes and furthers the common good and social wellbeing of at-risk populations residing in New Jersey. The New Jersey Society of Optometric Physicians graciously volunteered their staff’s efforts and resources to insure the course’s success. Doctors leaving the seminar remarked that they had felt intimidated to treat patients with intellectual disabilities prior to the event, but now felt more comfortable with testing procedures and equipment after the hands-on seminar. They especially appreciated the opportunity to hear from Special Olympics Athletes personally and try equipment perfectly suited for individuals with special needs.